Canandaigua Main Street revamp gets snazzy send-off

CANANDAIGUA — With the trees back up and the construction cones gone, Main Street business owners are — for the most part — pleased with the new look downtown.

"This was needed," said Paula Bentley, of the Dalai Java. "It's a relief for me to see trees."

The more than $1.6 million revamp began in June and included the addition of new sidewalks, rain gardens, underground infrastructure, trees and more. A majority of the work — by DiFiore Construction, of Rochester — ended earlier this month.

"I think the outcome is fabulous," said Lisa Woodard, manager of Rockcastle Florist. Woodard added the city worked well with their business during the construction and speculated that curiosity for Main Street's new look may bring in more patrons.

One business owner was less pleased with the outcome.

"It wasn't what it was supposed to be," said Carolyn McNeil, manager of The Paperback Place, 82 S. Main. "I wish it had been planned better."

Since construction took place during summer — the height of tourist season — McNeil said that work, along with torn up sidewalks, hindered business during those warmer months. She added that she does not expect to recoup that business until next summer.

On the other hand, to match the street renovations, the building in which The Paperback Place is located — 76 S. Main St. — is getting a fresh paint job. McNeil approved of this renovation adding, "our landlord was smart, he did it in the fall."

The building is owned by David Genecco, of Canandaigua.

While the torn-up sidewalks had turned some away, the new look is drawing some to South Main Street who haven't been there in a while.

"I'm really happy it's open," said Canandaigua resident, Maria Sullivan. "It's been three years since I walked down Main Street."

The construction was recently completed and capped off with a "Leaving of the Cones" ceremony headed by the tune of a bagpipe, played by downtown police officer Wayne Fenton.